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Train News: Want to Take a Dog on the Train? Know the Railway's New Rules First, or Face a 6-Fold Fine.
Indiaemploymentnews | April 30, 2026 6:50 PM CST

Indian Railways: If you wish to take your pet along with you on a train, you must first familiarize yourself with the railway’s regulations; traveling without a proper booking and the necessary documents could result in a fine of up to six times the standard rate.

Indian Railways Rules for Domestic Animals: Millions of people travel by train every day, but there are specific essential rules governing such journeys. If you own a pet and are planning to take it along with you on the train, it is absolutely crucial to be well-informed about Indian Railways’ regulations. This is because carrying a pet without proper knowledge of the rules could lead to disciplinary action being taken against you. Therefore, being aware of these key points is of utmost importance.

The railway administration has explicitly stated that strict action will be taken against anyone transporting animals or birds on a train without a valid booking and the requisite documents. In such instances, a fine amounting to up to six times the standard rate may be levied on the passenger. According to Hitesh Yadav, Senior DCM of the Jodhpur Division under North Western Railway, the railways have established clear-cut rules regarding the transportation of animals and birds. Adherence to these rules is mandatory for all passengers.

Dogs Can Only Be Transported in First AC and First Class AC Coaches

According to railway regulations, pet dogs may only be transported in First AC or First Class coaches.

Know the Essential Conditions for This:

  • The entire coupe or cabin must be reserved.
  • The consent of the co-passengers traveling in the same compartment is mandatory.
  • Permission must be obtained from the TTE (Ticket Examiner).

Parcel and Brake Van Facilities

If you are unable to take the animal into your passenger coach, the railways offer a “Parcel” or “Brake Van” (luggage van) facility. In this section, the animal is housed in a designated “dog box” located near the Guard’s cabin and is transported in a safe and secure manner.

What is the Procedure for Booking?

If you wish to book transportation for an animal, you must contact the Parcel Office at the railway station prior to your journey. There, you will be required to provide details regarding the animal’s weight, fill out the prescribed forms, and pay the applicable fees. Once this process is completed, the railway authorities will issue an official receipt. Know the Essential Documents

To make a booking, passengers are required to submit the following documents:

A Health Certificate issued by a veterinarian
A Vaccination Certificate
The owner’s Proof of Identity
Please note that the applicable fee is determined based on the animal’s weight and the distance of the journey. Additionally, a 2% Development Charge and a 5% GST are levied separately.

Rules for Other Animals

The Railways has clarified that animals such as sheep, goats, calves, and pigs can only be booked for transport within the luggage van. If found traveling without a valid booking, a fine amounting to up to six times the standard fare will be imposed.

Rules for Bicycles and Motorcycles

It is not just animals; items such as bicycles, scooters, and motorcycles must also be booked for transport within the brake van. Violating these regulations may result in the imposition of a minimum penalty. The Railway administration appeals to passengers to ensure that they properly complete the booking formalities for their pets prior to their journey, and to strictly adhere to all applicable rules, thereby avoiding the need to pay any fines.


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